Lab Dekho does not yet list a verified pulmonologist with a practice in Chennai. None are listed nearby yet either, but 1 pulmonologist across India offer online video consultation, which works well for a first opinion, follow-ups and reviewing reports:

Dr. Smita Patil, Pulmonology — 11 years of experience, rated 4.7 from 234 reviews, offers online consultation

What does a pulmonologist do?

A Pulmonologist (also called a Respirologist) is a specialist in diseases of the lungs and respiratory system. They manage conditions like asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), pneumonia, tuberculosis, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, and lung cancer. Pulmonologists perform bronchoscopy, pulmonary function tests (spirometry), and thoracentesis. They also manage patients on mechanical ventilation in ICUs. Sleep medicine (for sleep apnea) and critical care are major areas of pulmonology.

Conditions pulmonologists treat

Asthma
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
Tuberculosis (TB)
Pneumonia
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Interstitial Lung Disease
Pulmonary Hypertension
Lung Cancer
Sleep Apnea
Pleural Effusion (Fluid Around Lungs)
COVID-19 Lung Complications

Symptoms that are worth a visit

Consider booking a pulmonologist if you have any of the following, especially if they are new, getting worse or affecting daily life:

Persistent cough for 3+ weeks
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Coughing blood (hemoptysis)
Chest tightness
Excessive daytime sleepiness (sleep apnea)
Unexplained weight loss
Cough lasting more than 3 weeks
Shortness of breath on mild activity
Wheezing not controlled by inhaler

Common tests and procedures

Depending on your symptoms, a pulmonologist may recommend:

Spirometry (PFT)
Bronchoscopy
CT Chest
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Thoracentesis (Pleural Fluid Removal)
Sleep Study
Oxygen Therapy
Nebulization Treatment

Many blood tests can be booked with home sample collection before your consultation, so the results are ready when you see the doctor.

Qualifications to look for

Pulmonologists usually hold MBBS, MD (Pulmonary Medicine), DM (Pulmonology), Fellowship in Critical Care / Sleep Medicine. Check that the doctor is registered with the National Medical Commission or a State Medical Council, and ask about their experience with your specific condition.

Sub-specialities

Some pulmonologists focus further on one area: Sleep Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, Interventional Pulmonology, Pediatric Pulmonology.

Typical consultation fees

An in-clinic consultation with a pulmonologist in India typically costs about ₹600 to ₹1,800. This is an approximate range — actual fees vary by city, the doctor's experience and the clinic or hospital, and follow-up visits are often cheaper. Confirm the fee when you book.

Getting care in Chennai until a pulmonologist is listed

Online consultation: 1 pulmonologist on Lab Dekho offer video consults — useful for a first opinion, follow-ups and reviewing reports.
Start with a general physician if your symptoms are new or unclear; they can treat many problems and refer you to the right specialist.
Book tests at home: compare lab tests and health packages with home sample collection.
Emergencies: call 108 or 112, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Questions about pulmonologists in Chennai

Is there a pulmonologist listed in Chennai on Lab Dekho?

Not yet — Lab Dekho does not currently list a verified pulmonologist with a practice in Chennai. 1 pulmonologist across India offer online video consultation.

How do I find the nearest pulmonologist to Chennai?

Use the list of pulmonologists in nearby cities on this page and compare their clinic locations, experience and reviews. You can also ask a general physician near you for a referral.

What is the difference between asthma and COPD?

Asthma is usually allergic, starts early, and is mostly reversible. COPD is caused primarily by smoking, starts in middle age, and is progressive and irreversible.

Is tuberculosis (TB) still common in India?

Yes. India has the highest TB burden globally. TB is curable with a 6-month course of antibiotics if treated early.

What is a pulmonary function test (PFT)?

PFT or spirometry measures how much and how fast you can breathe in and out. It is used to diagnose asthma, COPD, and other lung diseases.

What should I do in a medical emergency?

Call 108 or 112, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department straight away — do not wait to book an appointment.

How to choose and book

Compare qualifications, years of experience, patient ratings and fees, and check whether the doctor offers in-clinic, online or both. Carry previous reports and a list of medicines to your visit. You can also compare lab tests and health packages, and book home sample collection. In an emergency, call 108 or 112 rather than booking an appointment.

This page is general information and not medical advice. Doctor details, fees and availability are supplied by providers and may change.